Knowledge, Attitudes and Practice regarding Plant Based Diets among Medical Doctors in a Medical College: A Cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background: Plant-based dietary patterns emphasize foods derived predominantly from plants, including vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts and seeds. Increasing evidence suggests that appropriately planned plant-based dietary patterns may contribute to the prevention and management of selected cardiometabolic conditions. Physicians have an important role in providing evidence-based dietary counselling; however, their knowledge, attitudes and personal practices may influence their confidence in recommending such dietary patterns.

Objective: To assess the knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding plant-based diets among medical doctors and to identify factors associated with their perceptions and dietary practices.

Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted among 200 practicing medical doctors at Mahavir Institute of Medical Sciences, Telangana, from 10 November 2025 to 10 April 2026. Participants were selected using convenience sampling. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire covering sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge, attitudes and dietary practices related to plant-based diets. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.0. Categorical variables were summarized using frequencies and percentages, and associations between categorical variables were assessed using the chi-square test or Fisher's exact test, as appropriate. Statistical significance was considered at p < 0.05.

Results: Among the 200 participating doctors, 151 (75.5%) reported awareness of plant-based nutrition. All participants correctly identified the major food groups comprising a plant-based dietary pattern. Knowledge regarding plant sources of complete protein was demonstrated by 151 (75.5%) participants, while 190 (95.0%) correctly identified vitamin B12 as an important nutrient requiring attention among individuals following vegan or vegetarian diets. Attitudes toward plant-based diets were generally favorable, although concerns regarding preparation, affordability and feasibility were reported. The findings also indicated a difference between knowledge and willingness to translate plant-based dietary practices into personal and professional recommendations.

Conclusion: Doctors surveyed at the participating institution demonstrated relatively high correct-response rates for several knowledge items and generally favorable attitudes toward plant-based dietary patterns. However, practical concerns and uncertainty regarding adoption and dietary counselling were also evident. Structured nutrition education and evidence-based counselling resources may help improve physicians' confidence in discussing plant-based dietary patterns with patients.